Post High School Job Opportunities
Where can I go with my high school diploma?
The jobs listed below often only require a high school diploma. It is important to note that many of these jobs may also require some experience and/or additional training or education.
Cashier
Cashiers total bills, receive money, make change, fill out charge forms, and give receipts at retail stores. There are no educational requirements but employers filling full-time jobs often prefer applicants with high school diplomas.
Median salary: $29,399
Chef, Cook, or Food Preparation Worker
Chefs, cooks, and food preparation workers prepare, season, and cook a wide range of foods in a variety of restaurants and other food services establishments. Generally fast-food or short-order cooks and food preparation workers do not need much education or training as their skills are learned on the job. Those who want to work as a cook or chef can take courses in high school or through vocational school programs. In order to work as a head cook or executive chef, one must complete a formal training program.
Median salary: $31,039
Retail Salesperson
Retail salespeople help customers find what they are looking for and try to interest them in buying the merchandise. Although there aren't any formal educational requirements for retail salespersons, many employers prefer a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Median salary: $25,636
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists with the preparation of prescription medications for customers. They perform tasks that range from receiving written prescriptions to counting pills and labeling bottles.
Median salary: $35,408
Medical Secretary
A medical secretary performs clerical duties in a medical office, using a variety of office equipment including computers, fax machines, a telephone system and scanners. He utilizes his knowledge of medical terminology, insurance rules and medical billing procedures. Often requires specialized training.
Median salary: $35,580
Paralegal
Paralegals assist lawyers by helping them with a variety of tasks, including preparing for trials, hearings and closings; doing research; and drafting legal documents. Many paralegals have earned associate degrees.
Median salary: $51,887
Human Resources Assistant
Human resources assistants (HR assistants) keep an organization's personnel records up-to-date. They keep track of employees' address changes, changes in job titles, benefits, and salaries. Tasks may vary depending on the size of the organization. At a larger company, for example, an HR assistant may perform additional clerical duties or screen job candidates. Many human resources assistants have earned associate or bachelors degrees.
Median salary: $38,110